357c

LOCATION

Montreal, Quebec

TYPE

Commercial

CLIENT

Les Propriétés Terra Incognita Inc.

BUDGET

+ $25 M

YEAR

1997-2004

PHOTO GALLERY

Objectives

The too-long-forgotten Harbour Commissioners Building (1875) rose from its own ashes. Renamed 357c, this private club intrigues by its Second Empire style where past and present naturally embrace each other so as to create an exclusive meeting place for creative and business communities.

Description

The former Harbour Commissioners Building is located in the historic area of Old Montreal and was a hub of metropolitan commercial activity at the turn of the 20th century. Built on a backfilled and unstable site, the building had been abandoned for 10 years and was further damaged by fire in 1997.

The project combined interventions on the building’s exterior envelope (major strengthening work on masonry and the copper roof, reconstruction of the cupola, restoration of the doors, windows and fences) and in interior design (inclusion of offices, conference and reception halls, kitchen and catering services).

From a technical and functional standpoint, the redevelopment had to incorporate the most advanced building automation systems. The project thus integrates high-end technology with the conservation of the building’s historic character. The contemporary extension offers a swimming pool, a spa and a garage. Made of a combination of glass, steel, aluminum and stone, it is inspired by the conservatories adjoining upper-class houses of the 19th century. Restored, renovated and extended, this architectural jewel regains its former glory thanks to meticulous work which integrates it perfectly into its surrounding environment.